Fanshawe College - Interrobang_Winter 2022

CONTRIBUTORS

Savannah Bisaillon, Jessica Gould, Ian Indiano, Aisha Javaid, Bradley Kraemer, Ana Lustosa, Kate Otterbein, Dee-Dee Samuels, Amy Simon, Svitlana Stryhun

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tara Armstrong, Daniel Gouveia

ILLUSTRATORS

Dylan Charette, Riley De Matos, Ian Indiano

COLUMNISTS

Michael Veenema

COMICS

Laura Billson, Dylan Charette, Alan Dungo, Anthony Labonte, Chris Miszczak, Andres Silva

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Gary Hopkins, Jessica Wilson

Mission Statement: The Interrobang is a student-funded, student-run newspaper at Fanshawe College published by the Fanshawe College Student Union. It serves the student readership by reporting news involving the Fanshawe campus community, surrounding areas and student activities across Canada. The Interrobang strives to be impartial in its reporting and believes in the public’s right to know.

Land Acknowledgment: Interrobang acknowledges that our office is situated on the shared traditional lands of the Anishinaabeg, Haudenausaune, Lenaapeewak, and Attawandaron peoples. The First Nations communities of our local area include Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Oneida Nation of the Thames, and Munsee Delaware Nation. We affirm the importance of our relationship with Indigenous peoples and students at Fanshawe College.

Legal: Editorial opinions or comments expressed in this newspaper reflect the views of the writer and are not those of the Interrobang or the Fanshawe Student Union. All photographs are copyright 2019 by Fanshawe Student Union. All rights reserved. The Interrobang is printed by McLaren Press Graphics, 1021 Langford Drive, Gravenhurst ON P1P 1R1 and published weekly by the Fanshawe Student Union at 1001 Fanshawe College Blvd., Room SC2001, London, Ontario, N5Y 5R6 and distributed through the Fanshawe College community.

Letters to the editor are welcome. All letters are subject to editing and should be emailed. All letters must be accompanied by contact information. Letters can also be submitted online at theinterrobang.ca by following the Interrobang links.

Proud Member Of: Canadian University Press (CUP), Ontario Community Newspapers Association (OCNA).

With contributions by: The Western Gazette.

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FROM THE EDITOR

Dear readers, It’s been an uncomfortable and at times overwhelming couple of weeks here in Canada. While division has been at the centre of many of our conversations lately, we are instead turning our attention to diversity. Our Diversity issue is picking up where we left off with our Black History Month issue. Our goal, as always, is to continue bringing important stories to the forefront, exploring diverse perspectives, and keeping our readers informed on the world around them.

Reporter Ana Lustosa explores an issue close to us in the media industry: A lack of diversity in Canadian newsrooms. Sports reporter Brad Kraemer, meanwhile, looks at the wealth disparity in Formula One racing, a rapidly growing sport that has yet to truly embrace drivers of diverse backgrounds. Indigenous reporters Savannah Bisaillon and Jessica

Hannah Theodore

Gould take on two important discussions: The loss of Indigenous language and culture, and the rejection of Métis people by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

This issue also features a specially submitted cover, designed by student, Aaron Bengall. Aaron won our Interrobang cover contest with his unique interpretation of what diversity means to him.

In spite of everything we’ve seen and heard recently, we know that the true foundation of Canada is our respect and love for one another. We hope this issue reminds you of this truth.

Sincerely,

COVER: Aaron Bengall

Fanshawe alumni honoured for rescuing three from student bungalow fire

Amy Simon INTERROBANG

A pair of Fanshawe alumni have been honoured for their bravery after rescuing three women from a burning bungalow on Feb 1.

Yuvi Saini, 23, and Avi Verma, 28, said they were outside when they saw the blaze ravage through the house at 1281 Hillcrest Avenue around 3 a.m.

“I looked up from tying my shoes and saw the fire on the right side of the house,” said Verma.

Running over to the scene, Saini and Verma noticed three women trapped in the basement with no way to escape.

“In those situations, you don’t have time to think,” said Verma.

As one kicked in the window, the other pulled the women to safety. Fire crews arrived at the scene shortly after all 15 tenants were removed from the crowded home.

“In those stressful situations, I’m just happy everything worked out,” said Saini.

On Feb. 11, Saini and Verma were recognized as local heroes for their “quick thinking, actions, and life saving efforts” at the London Fire Department Memorial Headquarters.

“Without hesitation, they took it upon themselves to help,” read

the opening statement by London Deputy Fire Chief Richard Hayes.

“Since January of this year, there have been 20 fire-related deaths in the province of Ontario. But the actions of these two gentlemen have prevented the deaths of three more.”

Deputy Mayor Josh Morgan added that “on behalf of Mayor Holder and London City Council, we thank you for your heroism and bravery.”

Upon recognition from the City of London, Saini and Verma were also both awarded the London Professional Firefighters Association Challenge Coin.

“It represents over 103 years of firefighters protecting this community which you did that day,” said Jason Tilmlick, President of the London Professional Firefighters Association. “We get into this profession to help those in our community. You did that selflessly, courageously, and we can’t thank you enough for that.”

Saini and Verma, originally from India, both came to Canada three to five years ago to attend Fanshawe College. Saini, who graduated from Fanshawe’s Police Foundations program in 2019, said this incident had further influenced his aspirations of one day becoming a police officer.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. Knowing now that I can handle the rush and severity

of those situations makes me glad that I can help.”

“Who ever thought that a couple

of international students would be recognized for something of this level?” he added.

Fanshawe College responded on Twitter saying, “we are so #FalconProud of our Fanshawe alumni.”

Author Lydia Collins embracing sexual health and diversity

Amy Simon INTERROBANG

‘I Can’t Put a Condom on Racism,’ reads the title of Lydia Collins most recent blog post.

A writer and sexual health educator, with a focus on HIV prevention in African, Caribbean, and Black communities, Collins works to promote decolonial consent education.

“I’ve always had this strong liking towards community health and sexual health,” said Collins. “But I’ve also always loved writing and embracing my creative side.”

Combining her two passions, Collins received an undergraduate degree in English Language and Literature from Brock University, minoring in Women and Gender Studies. She went on to become a co-founder of Decolonize and Deconstruct, providing more consent education for postsecondary students.

“We noticed that a lot of the campaigns around sexual violence prevention and consent education on our campus was very surface level,” said Collins. “There were campaigns like ‘Consent to Sex-Ed,’ or ‘Consent for Pizza,’ which are great, quick ways to get students to start conversations about consent. So it wasn’t that these were necessarily bad campaigns, it’s that we’re not seeing anywhere on

campus, or elsewhere, where people are diving into larger conversations around the fact that race and racism needs to be a key component of sexual consent education.”

Collins shared her own experiences around those “key components” in areas such as her personal blog. The most recent post, ‘I Can’t Put a Condom on Racism,’ focuses on anti-Blackness, safer sex, and a long-lasting crush on Adam Sandler.

“Coincidently, my first intimate experience was with a boy who looked a lot like Adam Sandler,” said Collins.

“But, as excited as I was, thinking I was following everything that I knew about safe sex, he said that it was all just for him to get his ‘Black Belt.’ So when I said, “I can’t put a condom on racism,” it was born out of this frustration, tapping into that younger version of myself that was seen as something to concur.

“Anti-Blackness is such a big topic that kind of permeates the sex lives and romantic lives of Black people.

So why aren’t we talking about it in the context of sex and romantic relationships?” asked Collins.

Now a freelance writer as well as a learning and development specialist for the African Caribbean Council on HIV/AIDS in Ontario, Collins is the author of three published poetry chapbooks. The first titled Angry Black Women, Collins said, explores the

“interesting identities of rage, Blackness and womanhood.”

“It was created through conversations with other women of colour in my life,” she explained. “I tried to encapsulate others’ experiences without generalizing Black people and Black women because all of our experiences vary. I never want to be that spokesperson for Black people, saying ‘this is what it means to be a Black woman.’ It was more so sharing the similar experiences of friends, family and peers.”

On top of her print and online presence, Collins facilitates various workshops to students, faculty, and community members on topics ranging from anti-Black racism to sexual health and radical self-care.

“As much as I come in with professional and academic experience in these topics, the focus of my work, even within the workshops, is incorporating my own lived experiences,” said Collins. “Following me, as a young Black girl, trying to navigate my sexual life and connecting with the mistakes that I made along the way and the sexual trauma that has impacted me.”

Collins added that she “really wants people, especially Black youth, to take the time to build their confidence, to learn about consent and be unwavering in their boundaries.”

“I hope that from the work that

I do and stories that I share, people go away feeling like they have more tangible tools to better facilitate relationships in all aspects of life.”

Collins is working in collaboration with Leah Marshall, Fanshawe’s Sexual Violence Prevention Advisor, to bring one of her workshops to Fanshawe College. Titled ‘Reclaiming Pleasures: Sex, Race and Liberation,’ this workshop, which will take place March 8, will explore the stereotypes of Black women that stem from colonialism, to

navigating sexual racism and fetishization in the digital age. Email support@ uwo.ca to register.

If you have experienced gender-based or sexual violence, confidential support is available. To review your options, contact Leah Marshall at lkmarshall@fanshawec.ca.

For more community-based opportunities, contact The Regional Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Program at 519-646-6100 ext. 64224 or ext. 0 for a crisis.

CREDIT: AMY SIMON

Left to right: Platoon Chief Gary Mosburger, Avi Verma, Yuvi Saini, Deputy Fire Chief Richard Hayes.

CREDIT: LYDIA COLLINS

Lydia Collins is a writer and sexual health educator, with a focus on HIV prevention in African, Caribbean, and Black communities, and decolonial consent education.

Western student council moves to declare sexual violence “crisis” on campus

Western’s student council executives motioned to “declare a sexual and gender-based violence crisis is occurring on campus” and demand Western do the same.

The council will not formally vote on the motion until their meeting March 2. The motion, presented by University Students’ Council president Zamir Fakirani, alleges Western University “is aware of the intensity and the gravity of the gender-based violence we’re experiencing on this campus,” and not sufficiently acting on previous recommendations proposed to address the issue.

“Publicly declaring a crisis will pressure Western to acknowledge the true intensity and violent nature of the gender-based violence our students have been subject to,” read a slide from the executives’ presentation. “If we do not acknowledge the problem … change will continue to be slow and insufficient.”

In the nearly half-hour-long presentation to councillors on Feb. 16, the student council executives outlined “a record of university inaction” on sexual and gender-based violence over the past four years.

The council referred to the recommendations Western produced after the 2018 Student Voices on Sexual Violence Survey found over 71 per cent of the 8,000 Western student respondents reported experiencing sexual harassment during the academic year — the highest of any university in the province. In

response, Western’s Student Experience Office recommended the university develop a comprehensive Gender-Based Sexual Violence (GBSV) educational program for students and streamline its reporting systems.

Fakirani expressed in the council presentation that “these recommendations that were produced years ago sound awfully familiar to what we’re producing today,” referring to the four early recommendations Western’s Gender-Based and Sexual Violence Action Committee released earlier this month, which also recommended the university develop mandatory gender-based and sexual violence education modules for incoming students.

“I’m not going to say that we haven’t seen progress, because we have,” said Fakirani. “But it hasn’t been adequate, and our students are still feeling unsafe.”

Western did not respond to a request for comment.

The executives said they hope declaring a crisis will prevent similar “inaction” with the recommendations submitted in response to the reports of sexual violence from this year’s Orientation Week, which are expected to be published in the spring.

“We want to make sure that we’re not just welcoming and endorsing the recommendations, but that we’re acting upon them,” said Fakirani. “Unless the university starts to become a lot more transparent about how that process is gonna look, I worry about the implementation and the timeline of implementation.”

Western University’s acting

president Sarah Prichard responded to the USC’s criticisms in a statement to the Gazette, stating the university is committed to working with the USC anti-sexual violence initiatives and has “a long history of actively focusing on this work.”

“GBSV is a longstanding – and increasingly pressing – societal issue, and one that all universities and colleges are working to address. Facing it head on requires a collective effort and the engagement of our whole community,” said Prichard. “We remain very committed to

working with students, including the USC, to take further action.”

Prichard then outlined numerous measures the university has taken to address sexual violence on campus in recent years, including hiring 15 new security guards and four additional campus police officers as well as making additional counselling available to students.

Prichard also highlighted that Western’s sexual violence policy was one of the first stand-alone policies in Canada in 2014 and consulted over 400 community responses when it was reviewed in 2019.

The student council also alleged that the university failed to act on Orientation Week feedback from sophs in fall 2020, including that the school’s online training modules were “not enough to prepare them for their roles,” yet proceeded to use the same training this fall.

USC vice-president student programs Maddie Osborne also explained that after the events of Orientation Week, “the [Western] administration seemed very

unwilling to speak with students who were affected by the instances of sexual and gender-based violence” and didn’t attend the USC’s first soph roundtable following the events of OWeek, despite receiving invitations from the executive.

“Student voices are not being and have not been adequately listened to,” said Fakirani near the end of the presentation. “We have spent our entire term consulting and listening to students … The very, very disappointing common thread we’re seeing throughout all these experiences that we’re hearing is that students don’t feel like they’re being adequately listened to and that needs to change.”

Fakirani ultimately became choked up during his closing statement and was unable to finish the presentation, excusing himself from the meeting.

“We’re not perfect at the USC and I’m not saying we did everything perfectly either, but we’re committed to doing different and we want to be part of the solution.”

CREDIT: AARON GREENSPART (GAZETTE)

Sexual violence walkout organizers pose in front of the crowd, Sept. 17 2021.

Hope Mahood & Liam Afonso GAZETTE

Former Fanshawe student designs and creates a look for Christina Aguilera

Aisha Javaid INTERROBANG

Sebastian Taborda Guarin, a Fanshawe fashion design graduate (class of 2014), and current creative director and designer at Atelier Guarin, has designed and constructed looks for Christina Aguilera.

“I am a designer of Colombian background, and I had been talking to her stylist about the possibility of creating a look for her. I wanted to take part in this new musical era she was starting, as this is her comeback into Latin music after 20 years. After a little back and forth, the opportunity finally came at the last minute, one day in November.”

Guarin explained the quick turnaround of the project.

“I only had 24 hours to complete the look and get it to Vegas overnight for a Friday morning delivery,” he said. “I was able to design and create a leather look consisting of a jacket with a corset hook closure at the front, with hand beaded and sequined sleeves with a raised shoulder, and hand beaded, rosaries dangling at the sleeve cuffs. The look was inspired by a

Fanshawe’s Career Fair makes a virtual return

high-fashion window as it was for her new music video for ‘Santo.’”

In addition to Aguilera, Guarin has dressed and produced looks for many other famous figures like Kehlani, Kali Uchis, Jessie Reyez, JoJo, Trace Lysette and more. His designs have also surfaced in top publications like Vogue Italia, Women’s Wear Daily, InStyle and more.

Guarin’s adoration for pop culture was a key driver in his success and involvements.

“Honestly, my biggest influence has been pop culture, and my favourite pop stars, so dressing one of my ultimate icons like Xtina was absolutely wild! My mother has also always been into fashion, and I believe that she has also shaped me into becoming aware of beautiful clothing and style.”

The Toronto-based designer created his own line while studying fashion design at Fanshawe.

“I would host my own fashion shows every summer while off school and immediately continued to work on my own line following my graduation,” explained Guarin.

“It’s been a slow and steady progress with ups and downs like every career. However, the biggest

challenge came with COVID-19, which forced me to shut down all upcoming plans and delivered a lot of cancelled fashion related projects and exciting things that were incoming. But, I quickly pivoted and moved some plans far ahead of when I thought I would do it, and I launched my home-goods category,” said Guarin.

Guarin’s home-good category titled, CASA by Atelier Guarin received great success and Guarin said that the reception was incredible.

“Two years later, I am just starting to get back out there again with fashion projects and working towards rebuilding and coming back strong. My advice to anyone starting a line is, you need to network, work very hard, and think outside the box to stand-out!”

Moreover, Guarin wished to dress more of his favourite celebrities and create more exceptional pieces. He also wished to go on tour with his favourite icons and create an entire tour wardrobe.

“I wish to keep expanding Atelier Guarin into a full lifestyle brand, honestly there’s so many goals and dreams, I could go on forever!”

Fanshawe’s annual Career Fair is coming back virtually. It is on March 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“There are opportunities for students from every program,” said Darlene O’Neill, the Director of Employment and Student Entrepreneurial Services at Fanshawe College. “They could be part-time opportunities, co-op opportunities, and most importantly graduate employment opportunities.”

O’Neill said there are lots of opportunities available and it’s a great time for students to be looking for work. The fair will be hosted through Pheedloop, which allows students to interact with approximately 100 employers in the moment.

“We are really trying to bring the closest to reality experience for students,” said Murilo Tamburus, the Events and Social Media Coordinator for Employment and Students Entrepreneurial Services at Fanshawe College. “Pheedloop will offer them the opportunity to chat with employers and some of them will have the feature of using a video chat. So they will be able to join groups of up to 25 people with the employer and they will be able to ask questions.”

However, not every employer will have the video feature. For those who don’t, a live chat feature is available.

“Each company is offering extra representatives, so they will get a quick response,” said Tamburus.

Since there are video chat opportunities, students are asked to dress in professional attire and have their resumes ready to go in PDF format.

“They will have a button to submit their resume,” said Tamburus. “That will be easier for some students just like they do in an in-person event where they just print their resumes and take them to the booths.”

The platform also has a 3D map feature where students can walk around and visit the booth with the company logo they desire. A photo booth will also be available.

“I hope they have a really unique experience,” said O’Neill. “I really hope the students expand the breadth of their opportunities. What I mean by that is when students are looking for employment, they typically look only in the field that is related to their program of study. But I think I’ve said it many times over the years. Every firm needs an accountant, every firm needs a graphic designer, every firm needs an HR person.”

O’Neill added that this is also a great opportunity to have your confidence boosted as a student.

“This is a golden opportunity to have a conversation with somebody that hires people. The really neat thing about this year and in a virtual world is we’ve got employers from all across Canada. I would love it if Fanshawe students and graduates filled those vacancies for these employers.”

Students who are interested can register at www.pheedloop.com/ careerfair2022/site/home.

CREDIT: ZOE RAIN

Former Fanshawe student, Sebastian Taborda Guarin designs and creates a look for Christina Aguilera.

CREDIT: COURTESY OF MURILO TAMBURUS

“There are opportunities for students from every program,” said Darlene O’Neill, the Director of Employment and Student Entrepreneurial Services at Fanshawe College.

Kate Otterbein INTERROBANG

Off the Radar: What’s going on in the world

Ian Indiano INTERROBANG

When it comes to diversity, we must remember that this is an umbrella term that should permeate everything. To formulate any opinion, it is fundamental to consider multiple points of view, multiple sources and different perspectives. Maybe saying that we are inherently biased is a strong claim. However, it is inevitable that we will look at things through the prism of our identity before anything. It requires effort to remember that other opinions and realities exist. To do so, we must pay attention to what is going on in other places, and to other people.

To help you stay informed, here are five news stories you should be paying attention to:

Mali’s military junta orders French military exit

Right now, around 5,000 French soldiers are in Mali, fighting groups such as Islamic State and Al-Qaeda. However, the French troops are quite unpopular in the region that used to be a French colony. Mali’s current government is controlled by a military junta that seized power in a coup in Aug., 2020. The junta refused France’s request to hold democratic elections this February and said they will hold power until 2025. The animosity and difficulties in communication resulted in the request for France to withdraw its troupes from Mali immediately, although France said that this process might take four to six months.

Catastrophic floods in Brazil

Over the past few weeks, Brazil has faced a series of devastating floods all over the country. The last big tragedy happened in the city of Petrópolis, north of Rio. At least 117 people were killed in landslides and floods caused by abnormally heavy rains. This was the heaviest rainfall in nearly a century. Since the start of the wet season, more than 40 have died in Bahia and Minas Gerais states. In São Paulo state, 21 people have also died in landslides.

Australia’s controversial religion bill

A bill aimed at protecting religious people in Australia has been causing controversy. Critics are saying that the bill enables discrimination against the LGBTQ2S+ community. The bill allows religious schools to expel a student or refuse to hire a teacher because of their sexuality or gender identity. The bill was introduced in November by PM Scott Morrison, a conservative Pentecostal

Christian, and it aims to protect people’s “statements of belief.” Despite being changed several times, some politicians from his own party said they will vote it down.

Kuwait overturns law criminalizing transgender people

A law that criminalized “imitation of the opposite sex” was overturned by Kuwait’s constitutional court. The Gulf state’s law was used to prosecute transgender people and it was introduced in 2007 to make

the offense punishable by up to one year in prison. Although Kuwait’s penal code still criminalizes samesex relations between men, the court ruling said the amendment violated the constitution. Amnesty International called the resolution “a major breakthrough for transgender rights in the region.”

Six African countries to get mRNA technology

It was announced by the World Health Organization that six African

nations would be given mRNA vaccine technology to create their own vaccine production centres. The technology will not only help to construct a self-reliance against the COVID-19 pandemic in the continent, but also to produce jabs for other diseases like tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV. The countries are Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya, Senegal, South Africa and Tunisia. The aim is to have 60 per cent of all vaccines administered in Africa produced in Africa.

#28DaysofAction: How Fanshawe recognized Black History Month

Brad Kraemer

The month of February has been recognized as Black History Month in Canada since 1995 after a motion from Jean Augustine –the first Black Canadian woman to serve as a federal Minister of the Crown and Member of Parliament – was passed unanimously at the House of Commons. This Black History Month, Fanshawe College launched their #28DaysofAction

Against Anti-Black Racism to not only celebrate Black history, but to inform and take action to tackle racism in the community and the nation. This plan has been headed by the director of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI)

Joseph Pazzano. He shares where the idea came from and what the school is trying to accomplish.

“I think Black History Month is a time for us to reflect on the history of Black Canadians who have contributed [to the country] but it’s also a time to acknowledge that systemic racism is an experience on these lands,” said Pazzano. “This is why we launched 28 Days of Action. Too often we speak about our values of inclusion, but we don’t talk about how to get there. This is a step in that direction. We’ve got big structural challenges as a country, but individuals make things happen. So these are 28 actions individuals can take to learn to support Black communities and commit to doing more.”

At the beginning of the month,

Fanshawe and Pazzano began building the “foundations of learning” so people can be informed before they act. Pazzano described what other things they have achieved.

“We have lots around learning, because I think learning is really important. So learning about Black history, learning about systemic racism, and then we have some actions around building community,” said Pazzano.

“Then we have some information about how you can support Black communities, Black businesses, Black focused organizations in London and surrounding areas.”

On Fanshawe College’s Twitter page, some of the actions shared included sharing a list of Blackowned businesses to shop at, videos and books to watch and

read, an exercise to practice how to respond to microaggressions and even a self-assessment quiz. To find out what Fanshawe is doing

to end the month, Pazzano urged students to follow Fanshawe on all their social media platforms to see exactly what they’re doing.

CREDIT: IAN INDIANO

CREDIT: FANSHAWE COLLEGE Pazzano believes we need to learn before we can act.

INTERROBANG

A Christian-Indigenous drama 30 minutes from London

Michael Veenema RELIGION

From 1722 on, missionaries of the Moravian Church fanned out from Germany into as many of the European colonial settlements as they could manage. Called at the time, the Herrnhut Brethren, they resolved to do three things: To bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to non-Christian Indigenous people; to renew the Christian life among nominal, passive Christians; to unite Christian people into a single world-wide communion.

One of the results of this seemingly fantastic mission was that Moravian communities were founded among North American natives in the northeastern United States and westward into Ohio. They were extremely successful, especially among natives known as the Delaware. The Delaware were attracted by the sturdy European-style houses, improved farming techniques, the Christian piety of the missionaries, and the pacifist vision of the Moravians.

But when the American revolutionary war broke out, this pacifism became (on the surface) the downfall of the Delaware Christians. Since they refused to join either the Loyalist or the revolutionary forces, they were suspected by both as collaborators with the enemy. A number of them were therefore massacred.

This is why, in 1792 a band of hopeful Delaware and their missionary leaders migrated cautiously from Detroit up the Thames River and established the settlement of Fairfield. For some years, the settlement, not far from London, thrived and became the economic centre of the region.

However, the war of 1812 brought disaster. Americans came up the Thames in pursuit of British (Loyalist) enemies. The Battle of Moravian Town (or the Battle of the Thames) resulted in victory for the Americans. Believing that the Moravian towns people gave safe harbour to British soldiers, they plundered and destroyed the town. The villagers themselves were permitted to leave, spending the remainder of the war near Burlington, Ont., and later returning to build New Fairfield.

The story of the New Fairfield re-settlement is remarkable, and has more than its share

of unhappiness. By 1856, the government of Upper Canada reduced the original Moravian lands from 20,700 hectares to a mere 1,330 hectare reserve. Modern life by way of other settlement and the selling of logging rights on the reserve undermined the guidance of the missionaries. The lowest point of the mission came during the leadership of Jesse Vogler. His own life was beset by family tensions and, I believe, a growing isolation from his Moravian colleagues, headquartered in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (where the Moravian Church retains its archives, headquarters, and its theological school). Vogler, sadly, became involved in rancorous disputes about who had the rights to sell logs, while his own son was involved in the management of the timber sales.

Even more tragically, Vogler came to believe what many, including some native leaders, believed: That North American natives needed to become Europeans, or perish. In this, there was a betrayal of the work of the founding generation of Moravian missionaries, and a grave failure to differentiate between missionary goals and colonial-modernist expectations.

Vogler died in 1865. While his body was awaiting burial, the house in which it lay burned down. Could this have been deliberate?

Of course, after all this calamity, it would have been natural for the Delaware natives to reject Moravian missionaries and the Christian faith they shared. However, the mission was revived under the leadership of those who replaced Vogler. Missionary John Warman wrote that many of those who had been estranged from the mission returned. Native children came to hear the stories of Jesus in their own language. Delaware elder, Francis B. Wampum wrote that he and the other natives were “all well” and were very pleased that Warman had come.

Edward Reinke served the community from 1867 to 1872. Much more than Warman, he investigated the actions of Vogler and his family. There was much to lament, and he faced this, I think, admirably. His largest contribution was probably that he made it clear that the role of the missionary leader must be to stay out of economic schemes; instead the missionary must build faith in God, awaken the conscience, support the people, share of the story of Christ, and organize church and school.

Although it may seem that, under Reinke, Moravian work was being revived, in reality the “revival” was limited. The vision of Christian

communities directed solely by missionaries was vanishing. Modern political developments, railway and road transportation, military institutions, new economic trends, public education, and the reduction of reserve lands took from the missionary much of the leadership they previously assumed. To the missionaries – along with church leaders generally – it seemed that the tasks which were left were those of prayer, preaching, Bible study, baptism, leadership of weddings and funerals, and the organizing of church music.

In the meantime, the children and descendants of the Delaware natives who arrived on the shores of the Thames in 1792 might have been expected to abandon the Christian faith. They did not. As the words of Elder Wampum suggest, they appropriated the Christian faith on

their own terms. Most of them joined the Methodist Church prior to 1900.

As for the relationships set up between Christian leaders and modern society during the later 1800s, they too developed over time and remain, by no means, resolved. And what about the Moravians’ vision of generating a worldwide communion of Christian believers? Their work may not have resulted in as impressive of a network as they envisioned. However, Moravian churches have flourished around the world, including in today’s Western Canada and among the Inuit of Newfoundland Labrador.

This article draws on the M. A. thesis by Michael Veenema, Challenge, Corruption and Grace on the Road to Closure: The Moravian Mission of New Fairfield on the Thames, 18431903, Western University, London, 2002.

How difference makes Canadians stronger

Svitlana Stryhun INTERROBANG

We are all so diverse and yet so overwhelmingly similar.

All our lives depend on how others perceive us and our way of living. People are social beings and they usually search for approval from peers, colleagues and loved ones. But nowadays there is an influence of standards that are forced on each of us by our surroundings or society as a whole. Those standards vary but are present in every sphere of life. Still, coming to Canada from Ukraine was a huge change for me that made me see the difference between these two countries.

Nobody is alike and we each have distinctions, especially when it comes to appearance. But that doesn’t make us less beautiful or attractive. However, back home I used to see girls who were struggling with major mental health

issues, because of bullying and inappropriate usage of social media. This was usually to do with two factors. First, they couldn’t accept their beauty or difference compared to icons and models they saw on the internet. And second, no one ever told them they were special; their hair colour, eyes, face, and habits. Girls changed themselves just to be the standard, instead of being unique.

Some time ago, I read an article and the main idea was that “we should love ourselves because our ancestors survived through tough years to let us live.” Loving ourselves is the key and that is what I see in young Canadians who surround me. They love who they are and do not refuse their uniqueness just to look as others feel they should look. My friends are free and it hit me hard when I arrived here, so hard that I will never return to the way I used to think years ago.

Another big change was the freedom of love. Back home I saw unwritten rules before my eyes. My mom used to say daily that I should

be married by 25, that I should be understanding and helpful towards my future partner. No wonder they say, “the road to hell is paved with good intentions.” People want to help their beloved one, to do good for them by giving pieces of advice. But they just don’t ask whether this person needs their advice at all, or whether it will even help them. My mom also says, “don’t repeat my mistakes.” I understand that she wanted to save me from pain. But young people are supposed to choose and to look thoroughly, to make mistakes and to live through them. That is what I see in Canadians. They value their interests and they are able to compromise on some issues. What is more, I see mutual respect and understanding that makes me believe in love again. Feelings are only real when they are not imposed by people around, but when they are experienced.

The last difference I want to describe is happiness. Sometimes a smile makes a day better and sometimes it saves a life. In Ukraine, no

one would ask you about your day or smile at you on the street. It seems impossible for me to imagine this happening. And I guess when I go back home I will seem strange, because after watching Canadians for half a year, I now share their habits. People here smile even if they are preoccupied by their own life problems. Even after a hard day they will ask you about your emotions or your physical state. They will thank you and be polite. I think Canada should be proud of their residents and the way they are raised.

How strange it may seem that we live in one world and still we vary so much in our traditions, our way of looking at things. We are different and should be proud of this. But in some ways, some are able to live happier lives, because they are free from standards and know that being themselves is primarily important. I still hope that cultural habits can change and I will be able to see this happening in my home country in the years to come

CREDIT: DAVELOGAN Ephraim Moravian Church in Ephraim, Wisconsin.

Growing into your roots

Jessica Gould INTERROBANG

While there are many issues Indigenous peoples face, one that is often neglected by the community is by its own people.

Helen Keller and ableism on TikTok

Recently, I found myself in one of those usual YouTube rabbit holes we all fall in to from time to time. This time I was trying to find videos of Helen Keller, the late American author and activist. She died in 1968 at 87, and unfortunately there isn’t much footage of her available, or at least not on YouTube. When she was 19 months old, Keller lost her sight and hearing after falling victim to an illness. That didn’t prevent her from becoming an accomplished writer, disability rights advocate and lecturer.

It was with great surprise, however, that during my research I bumped into a video allegedly debunking the “fraud” of Helen Keller. I thought it was a bad joke at first; after all it never occurred to me that Keller’s accomplishments were questionable in any way, given the fact that they are so well documented. But I was wrong. The more I investigated it, the more videos I found claiming that Keller was a charlatan. And after researching a bit more, I found out that the main source of this confusion was TikTok.

What might have begun as a joke, evolved into a proper conspiracy theory. If you search #HelenKeller on TikTok, most of the videos show teenagers spreading misconceptions about history and even doubting that Keller was even real. Most of the comments are simple manifestations of the worst kind of ableism (the discrimination of and social prejudice against people with disabilities) and are based on the shallow idea that “a deaf and blind person is not capable

of doing that.” Although Gen-Z plays with irony in a way that anyone who’s not a member of Gen-Z finds difficult to follow, when it comes to discrimination, the line is not so fine anymore.

To give a little bit of context about Keller’s life, we must start from the beginning. She was born in Alabama in 1880. After she lost her hearing and sight, she communicated through rudimentary signs invented by herself until the age of seven, when she met Anne Sullivan at the Perkins School for the Blind. Sullivan taught Keller how to communicate using tactile hand gestures and understand spoken language through the Tadoma method, and later how to speak. Keller then learned how to read and write in braille and ended up attending Harvard. Keller wrote 12 books, including an autobiography, and many essays and lectures. She travelled the world extensively, campaigning for civil rights. She was close friends with Alexander Graham Bell and Mark Twain. Her book on socialism was burned by the Nazis, but to this day she remains an inspiration and a symbol of hope.

Although TikTok removed many of these videos, many are still available. This trend might be shocking, but it shows that many people, including youth, still have wrong ideas about disability and how we, as a society, still have a long way to go if we want to construct a truly inclusive world.

To learn more about deaf-blindness, I recommend checking the DeafBlind Ontario Services’ website (deafblindontario.com). They provide an array of services to people who are deaf, hard of hearing, non-verbal and deafblind across Ontario.

Métis, French for “mixed,” defined the mingled identity of one who came from an Indigenous and French background. This has led to a debate among both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people regarding whether Métis members qualify as Indigenous or not, leaving Métis people to be rejected by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

Although Métis people have a distinct identity that has specific roots in Europe, Métis people often feel they are in limbo, being neglected by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. In the controversy of “true” Indigenous status, there is a wall that some First Nations and other Indigenous communities build.

The emotional wall built to block out Métis people is often due to statistics reflecting higher rates of completed education, better living conditions, and greater rates of employment in comparison to other Indigenous communities.

With more opportunities for a better equipped life from isolated reserves, it can be seen as though Indigenous people who are Métis have less struggles being Indigenous than other communities.

This draws a wedge between the Indigenous community and breaks apart Indigenous culture from the inside.

In addition to growing up off reserve areas and following a bulk of non-Indigenous culture, many

Métis people may be unaware of their Indigenous roots, culture and identity.

Despite being Indigenous my entire life, my family and I had no idea of our Métis roots until I was about ready to graduate from high school.

There is a great battle in trying to adapt as an adult and grow into the world as everyone does in this chapter of their life, but there is an additional pressure and workload I take on to learn about myself as an Indigenous individual.

As there has been great help, enlightenment and education in my journey of discovering my Métis self, I have also faced a backlash from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

From being called “Indian” by white men in line at Wal-Mart for using my tax-exempt card, to being

called “not a real Indigenous person” when identifying as Métis – all of this is challenging and disheartening. However, that is exactly why it matters to reach out of what was taught in schools growing up. It is not only important for Métis people, but for all Indigenous people to support each other, especially in environments where erasure is so prominent. Becoming more educated about Indigenous issues and our history can help us advocate for hope and change for the future of all Indigenous people.

While for myself and many others, the research and effort put into learning what has been silenced is a heavy weight to carry. An active effort to face many issues that have torn apart Métis people for generations can help against the history of colonialism, racism, and allow aid in the growth of Indigenous generations and voices.

CREDIT: IAN INDIANO

When she was 19 months old, Keller lost her sight and hearing after a bout of illness. That didn’t prevent her of becoming an accomplished writer, disability rights advocate and lecturer.

Ian Indiano INTERROBANG

CREDIT: MÉTIS NATION OF ONTARIO

The Métis flag’s infinity symbol is suggested to represent the infinity of Métis culture and faith.

Valuing neurodivergent people in a neurotypical world

Dee-Dee Samuels INTERROBANG

Whether you’re right out of school or returning to work after time away, entering or re-entering the workforce is filled with a mixed bag of emotions. Am I qualified enough? Am I still relevant? Am I in the right job? After an acquired brain injury, the question for me and for many people with invisible disabilities was, “do I disclose my disability?” Imagine the emotional toll that would put on someone trying to assimilate into a workplace. All this energy put into masking a part of you can make anyone feel emotionally unsafe and unstable, eroding confidence and causing mental health challenges.

In 2017, the Canadian Survey on Disability found that 59 per cent of working aged adults with an invisible disability were employed compared to 80 per cent of adults without.

I decided to explore what the 2022 mindset and biases are within the rapidly changing workplace. Was there going to be space for me, my newly acquired skills and my years of experience?

What I found out in the wild blue yonder was refreshing. Conversations were being had about challenging old mindsets around people with invisible disabilities. What I loved was the realization that people with invisible disabilities – which can range from Attention Deficit Hyperactive

Disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder or people like me with acquired brain injuries – were seen as powers rather than hindrances and employers and companies could actual benefit from the unique

ways these people think and perform. Accommodations weren’t adjustments to “typical” working practices but new ways of looking at behaviour and possibilities for the whole company.

When it comes to inclusion in the workplace, a good place for employers to start is by challenging one’s own “standards of convenience,” as a study from Harvard Business review coined it. Leaders must consciously challenge the way they evaluate or don’t change how they evaluate someone depending on who is sitting in front of them. The Harvard Business review went on to say that “when evaluating an employee, prioritize being aware over being right.” Some questions that leaders and employers were suggested to ask themselves were: How does my unconscious bias impact my ideas and beliefs about professionalism? How do my beliefs about professionalism support the growth and development of others?

The biggest issue that seemed to need to be tackled was how we educate people, especially young people within the school system. The pressures put on all people to constantly perform at the same standard, to be fast, to read quickly and memorize – all these pressures are a big part of the problem. It’s important that a neurodivergent person be valued in a neurotypical world.

Change can start by simply changing what we value in our students and our employees. Create a safe space so people feel comfortable disclosing their differences and include them in the conversation on how best to work around them. When people feel safe and valued, they tend to be able to exceed most expectations. I was empowered and excited to discover that I had a superpower and that superpower was my brain injury. I did not have a disability. I was a neurodiverse thinker. The word neurodiversity reframes mental health, ADHD, bipolar disorder and acquired brain injury and encourages employers to rethink their beliefs about how they feel about professionalism. Creating space for neurodiversity can improve profitability and performance of other employees fostering a holistic value system in the workplace can improve performance for all. It sounds silly, but it’s just kindness. We are on a precipice of change; it’s blossoming all around. Neurodiversity and mental health are becoming more accepted and welcomed as the world is becoming more familiar with them. Accessibility is for everyone.

CREDIT: YOKUNEN

In 2017, the Canadian Survey on Disability found that 59 per cent of working aged adults with an invisible disability were employed compared to 80 per cent of adults without.

Does the Canadian history curriculum need to be made more diverse?

Canada has played a big role in the history of the Underground Railroad and for the Black Community. It was a destination slaves could come to be free. But how much of this is taught in schools? In my schooling, we did learn about the Underground Railroad and the role Canada played. However, we were never shown the local history.

London has a lot of Black history within the city, something that many people don’t realize. The Fugitive Slave Chapel, currently located on Grey Street, is one of those pieces of history.

“We think the chapel was probably built around 1848 because the land was purchased by the trustees of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1847,” said Hilary Neary, who is involved with the Chapel Project, to save the Fugitive Slave Chapel. “There were certainly Black Methodists in London at that time who needed a place to worship. So the chapel was actually functioning as a worshipping community for about 20 years before the congregation grew so large that the trustees opened Beth Emanuel Church in 1869.”

“It was also one of those places that was a meeting place,” said Carl Cadogan, the chair of the London Black Coordinating Committee. “Not only for worship but for community meetings and for the community to get together.”

This Chapel is something that, where I grew up (only about an hour away from London), was not being taught at the time I was in elementary school. But history is something that is much more fascinating to people when it can be related to where they are walking and the environment they are living in every day.

“About eight or nine years ago during Black History Month, we showed the film Glory, ” said Cadogan. “If you remember that film with Denzel Washington, it’s about the Black Battalion during the Civil War and after we had a conversation. The person that presented the answered question talked about the fact that a number of people who had escaped slavery in the States, came to London and were living in London, went back to the US to join that battalion

to fight. They died along with all those people that fought in that Black Battalion that Glory represented.”

Cadogan explained how interesting he thought it was, that these people had given themselves a better life, but they wanted to go back and fight for others to have a better life.

“It’s always sad that people don’t know more about Canadian history because people look and they can recite and regurgitate all

of the stuff that happens in the States, but many things equally as exciting and important happened in this country. And the school system hasn’t really been able to document and pass it on to students.”

This is especially true when Cadogan was a student himself.

“When I was in Grade 13, I wrote a paper on Blacks in Canada. I submitted it and the paper was worth 50 per cent of the school year. I did a lot of research, I didn’t find anything in the libraries in my school and I didn’t find anything in the public library that I went to on a regular basis. I went to Toronto to visit my cousin, he took me to ‘Third World Books.’ It’s run by two Black Americans. They had a lot of stuff on Black history. I went in on a Friday night and on a Saturday and spent the whole day in that place. I wrote the paper and when I submitted it, I got a ‘C’ because the teacher didn’t believe it was Canadian history. He felt that even though I cited references, it wasn’t a good paper and it wasn’t Canadian History. And he was a history teacher. Not general history, but Canadian history.”

This was many years ago, but with the lack of local talk in schools, the Canadian history curriculum could be made more diverse to include the rich history that is to be had in London and surrounding areas.

On Feb. 18, Ontario Minister of Education Stephen Lecce announced that the Ontario government would be investing to support the development of curriculum-aligned resources to assist educators in teaching about Black experiences and contributions to Canada. In partnership with the government, the African Canadian National Coalition against Hate, Oppression and Racism (ANCHOR) will provide classroom-ready resources and training aligned to the Social Studies, Grades one to six, and History and Geography, Grades seven and eight, curriculum.

As someone who was once a student, the students care the most about the local history. That is the stuff they run home and tell their families about at the dinner table because they think it’s so fascinating that they are living where history once took place. That is how more knowledge and conversation on these topics happen.

Kate Otterbein INTERROBANG

The gender problem in the film industry

Savannah Bisaillon INTERROBANG

When examining mainstream cinema there has always been a gap between the percentage of men and women on film sets. As of 2020, 78.9 per cent of movie directors of theatrical films were male, in a study done by Jose Gabriel Navarro posted on Statista, whereas the percentage of woman directors was only 20.5 per cent.

But as a woman in school for film, I have noticed that this gender disparity starts in the classroom. According to The Guardian, in 2019 the number of women working in the film industry reached an all-time high, but men still outnumbered them four to one in key roles on film sets.

In the classroom, I have also observed that in a section of 20 students, about four out of the 20 identify as female. Out of three sections of 80 students, only 16 of them are female. That’s a 20 per cent women to 80 per cent men ratio.

Television is a similar story. In 2021, women represented 30 per cent of creators, 31 per cent of directors and 24 per cent of editors on streaming platforms. Meanwhile, women in broadcast programming represented just 22 per cent of creators, and 19 per cent of directors and editors, according to Women in TV Film.

Studies also show that woman-led companies receive less funding than male counterparts. In 2011, former president and CEO of CBS Films,

Amy Baer, decided to leave and go into the movie business. Even with movies like Moneyball and My Best Friend’s Wedding under her belt, she still struggled to get funding to launch her company Gidden Media.

In an interview with Variety Magazine Baer said, “I wasn’t being presented the same kinds of opportunities as men that I knew who had very similar circumstances and were suddenly being handed massive deals,”

Even among independent film, things don’t look much better. According to Women and Hollywood, in 2020-2021, 34 per cent of independent films considered or employed one or less women, and only 12 per cent of films employed one or less men.

The divide between women and men on film sets starts in the classroom, especially when making the sections male dominated. It shows the reality of what the film industry looks like. But is it fair? As a woman hoping to be a part of the film industry, I would hope that schools teaching film would acknowledge and address this discrepancy.

Out of all the highest grossing films in 2021, just two out of 10 were directed by a woman. When it comes to women in film and in the film industry in general, we understand that the gap doesn’t start in the field but the classroom itself. Industry and education institutions need to make it an equal playing field for woman in film.

Diversity is important to sustainability

Donna Philip INTERROBANG

American inventor Benjamin Franklin once remarked “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”

Life is undoubtedly a learning process, and the remarkable thing about teaching, is that it can take place anywhere. We learn from our teachers, from our parents, peers, media, and even the environment. These days, the latter is teaching us a lot by showing. From devastating wildfires in Australia, to the threatening Taal volcano in the Philippines, to frequent earthquakes in Puerto Rico. Something is definitely amiss on planet Earth, but is there anything that we, as its inhabitants, can do about it?

Many may argue that “doomsday is near,” or that these are “the effects of climate change.” Whether any of that is true, one thing remains certain: we cannot keep squandering our resources and hoping for the best. Unlike our ancestors and parents, millennials and Gen-Xers are constantly exposed to a vast array of information concerning the environment, our carbon footprint and expected consequences.

We can’t feign ignorance. There are just too many resources from which we can learn to improve our

environment and ourselves. These resources include libraries, seminars, Facebook groups and our own classmates.

Fanshawe College is an amazing melting pot of culture. Having attracted tens of thousands of students to its various campuses, there’s very little, if anything, that one cannot learn just by asking. Foreign languages? We’ve got that. Different foods, music and traditions?

Those are covered too. Sustainability efforts? I’m sure we’d definitely be rewarded with numerous responses if only we asked.

Every country has its own special relationship with the environment.

From the way it cares for its insects and animals, to the manner in which it treats its land and deals with its resources. We can always learn something new from our counterparts and that includes ways of sustainable living.

For many people, the word sustainability still conjures images of planet saving and recycling. While those are in fact involved in environmental sustainability, we must never forget that it encompasses so much more. The Brundtland Commission 1987 defined sustainability as “meeting our present needs, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Sustainability also deals with caring for ourselves, our

communities and the skills needed to succeed. Completely committed to such, is Fanshawe College who outlines sustainability on its website, “It incorporates environmental, social and economic dimensions that support human well-being, economic prosperity and environmental health over time. So, can diversity positively affect sustainability?

In its 2016 Census, Statistics Canada confirmed that there were nearly 250 ethnic origins reported by Ontarians. There were just over three million reported Canadians, over 2.8 million English, 2.1 million Scottish, followed by Irish, French, German, Italian, Chinese, East Indian and Dutch residents. There are also the ever-present Aboriginals comprising of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people. What a kaleidoscope of diversity just waiting to be tapped into. Apart from the environmental aspect, international students bring a wealth of information from their diverse backgrounds. This includes skills in business, technology, science, linguistics, history, art, music, sports and much more.

Instead of merely acknowledging their multiplicity, they should be encouraged to actively share their wealth of experience and knowledge. Allow them to be agents of change with their various contributions so that we can incorporate

their suggestions into our own social, environmental and economic practices, or at least consider how we can improve them.

There is so much hidden opportunity in diversity. In it, lies strength, revelations, potential and power. Embracing diversity can change mindsets and trigger enlightenment. Why complain about apparent obstacles, when we can take an active role in conquering them? The only way to develop is to constantly seek knowledge and apply this learning.

Diversity in sustainability presents a chance for inclusion and acceptance of all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, background and social status. The late American entrepreneur and former publisher of Forbes magazine, Malcolm Forbes described diversity as “the art of thinking independently together.” Just imagine what could be accomplished if we adopted a lifestyle of unbiased and active listening, sharing, empathizing and collaborating. The time for positive action is now.

CREDIT: DYLAN CHARETTE

The divide between women and men on film sets starts in the classroom, especially when making the sections male dominated. It shows the reality of what the film industry looks like. But is it fair?

CREDIT: RAWPIXEL

The power of diversity is often overlooked when it comes to sustainability efforts.

ACROSS

1. Makeup, e.g.

5. Abbr. before a name on top of a memo

9. Ralph of “The Waltons”

14. Hearty dish

15. Emperor who committed matricide

16. Meteorological effects

17. Cutting-edge brand?

18. Delhi bread

19. Chart holder

20. Poor man becomes rich

23. Foreign assembly

24. Summer cooler

25. “Kidnapped” author’s initials

28. Car part

31. Positive response

34. A Siouan

35. Sammy the slugger

36. Symbol of power

38. Car part

41. “___ Rose” (song from “The Music Man”)

42. Airplane ticket info

43. U-turn from NNW

44. Half of a brother/sister dance duo

49. It sends checks to A.A.R.P. members (Abbr.)

50. Delight

51. What actors memorize

54. Grammy category won five times by Eminem

57. Car parts

60. Austin of “Knots Landing” 61. Aviation prefix 62. Not doing anything 63. Roller coaster feature

DOWN

1. Bygone monarch

2. Candy and Kett of comics

3. Conductor Koussevitzky

4. Quaint three-word contraction

5. Mark

6. Rip up

7. Walk

8. Sarge, e.g.

9. Car parts

10. Very small batteries

11. French 101 word

12. Pirouette pivot

13. Immigrant’s course (Abbr.)

21. Starchy food

22. ___ polloi

25. Civil disturbances

26. Mislays

27. Animal catcher

29. Neither mate

30. Kazakhstan, once (Abbr.).

31. Islands (Spanish)

32. Litmus reddeners

33. Euripides drama

37. Amigo

38. Red or Black

39. Car part

40. Courtyards

42. Sound systems

45. Gets rid of

46. Lou Gehrig’s disease, for short

47. Agree out of court

48.

like we do with bonsai.

Quirkiness

We all grow and blossom in our own way.

And we could stand together, complementing each other, no matter our shape or size.

Aries

Look past what others are doing and focus on your responsibilities. Be smart and connect with the people who share your goals, not those heading in different directions. Adjust to what’s trending and you’ll manage to stay ahead of the game. Don’t be discouraged by negativity or people who constantly complain. Look for the positive in every situation you encounter. Find out what’s expected of you before you decide to participate in an event or shared expenses. An emotional issue will surface that requires a response. Choose intelligence over emotion to avoid making a mistake.

Taurus

Take care of unfinished tasks before moving on to something more entertaining or relaxing. Helping others will frustrate you if they aren’t willing to do their fair share. An energetic approach will pay off. You’ll gain insight into how someone feels about you and your intentions if you let your actions speak for you. Keep your financial matters to yourself. Don’t get involved in investments that tie you to someone else monetarily. Keep your cash and possessions in a safe place. Look at all the variables before you promise to participate in something questionable.

Gemini

Trust in your instincts and you’ll accomplish what you set out to do. Take pride in your ability to get things done on time. Recognition is heading your way. Someone will be eager to mislead you if you let them. Gather information and look at every angle, but before you make a move, consider what will make your life easier and satisfy you most. You’ll gravitate toward whoever and whatever offers the most security. How you respond will play a massive role in the way things unfold. Choose practicality over dreams that have little substance. If you want to change start small and build gradually.

Cancer

By Dylan Charette

Libra

Think before acting and save yourself from unwanted criticism. Put more emphasis on getting things done and less on what others think. A couple of notable changes or diversions at home will help keep life interesting. A poker face will be in your best interest when dealing with others. Try using your skills in an innovative trendy fashion, and you’ll come up with something new and exciting. Get out and experience what’s happening around you. Observation will be a fantastic way to explore what’s possible and how best to present and promote what you have to offer. Take care of your responsibilities quickly.

Scorpio

Others will judge you by your reaction. Be mindful of others, take your time, and show kindness and consideration. Explore the things that move and motivate you and you will find peace of mind and a path that encourages you to make a difference. Explore the possibilities and what you must learn, develop and pursue to follow your dream. Do your research before you part with your hard-earned cash. Someone will dangle something irresistible in front of you, and it’s better if you have alternatives. Don’t say a word; your actions will impact onlookers and wannabes.

Sagittarius

Look at what you can accomplish and don’t stop until you are happy with the results. It’s time to put your house in order and ease your mind. Be a responsible observer. Be on the lookout for flaws, embellishment and unpredictable people. Maintain balance and a steady pace in a direction that suits your needs. Take responsibility for your happiness. Emotional excitement can lead to mistakes. Don’t let anyone pull you into drama or family feuds. Concentrate on minimizing uncertainty and confusion, not creating chaos. A hike, reading a good book or spending time with someone special is favoured.

Bide your time. Try something new or work on a project or pursuit that offers self-satisfaction. Refuse to let your emotions flare up. You can put on a show, entertain, promote or present something you are proud of with confidence and enthusiasm. Putting yourself out there will be liberating and sparks your imagination. Watch out for someone trying to take advantage of you. Take your time and proceed with caution, and you’ll realize what’s tempting you is impossible. Time spent with someone special will bring you closer together and encourage exciting plans.

Leo

Stay focused on what’s important to you and have no regrets. Distance yourself from anyone trying to lead you astray or disrupt your plans. Adjust your environment to suit your needs. Don’t let an emotional incident stifle communication with someone close to you. Be frank about what you want and what you are willing to give. Keeping things out in the open will help you recognize what’s possible and what to expect. Network if it will help you raise your game or position. Pay attention to detail regarding health, money and legal matters. Ease stress, eliminate risk, stay put and relax.

Virgo

You don’t have to keep up with everyone; do what makes you happy, and everything else will disappear. Let the past go and embrace the future with optimism. Share your feelings and the feedback you receive will turn into exciting options filled with unique ways to use your skills. Don’t fear the unknown; follow your instincts, and you’ll enjoy the outcome. Take a break, re-evaluate, and steady anything that makes you feel uneasy. It’s always best to maintain balance and integrity when entering unknown territory. You’ll get the green light and stress will lift as you put everything in its place.

Capricorn

Ease into whatever you want to pursue to avoid an emotional scene. Not everyone will enjoy or want to sign up for something that attracts you. Do as you please, but give others the same option. Consider how you run your life, manage your money and use your talents and you’ll come up with a nifty way to compact what you do to fit your space and schedule. Run a tight ship and explore new possibilities. Verify information when dealing with authority figures and institutions. Share your intentions with someone you love.

Aquarius

Take better care of yourself and your possessions. Go over your financial position and revamp your fitness and health regimen. Expect the unexpected. Don’t react based on emotions or information that has yet to be verified. Rethink your steps, be thoughtful and use your intelligence to develop a plan that is within your means and agreeable to those close to you. Call on those you know you can trust and you’ll gain insight into how to tweak what you want to do to suit the vast majority. Refuse to let anyone push you aside. Someone will withhold information. Don’t give in to a force play.

Pisces

Handle partnerships with kid gloves. Watch to see how others react, and you’ll find out where your alliances stand. Information is power; share only what’s necessary. Putting together budgets and schedules will make your life easier. What you accomplish will set the standard and pave the way to a better future. Know when to let go of something that is no longer working for you and you will save yourself emotional stress. Be honest with yourself. A positive change is heading your way. Be open and receptive, and live in the moment.

Fanshawe women’s curling team wins bronze at OCAA Championships

The Fanshawe women’s curling team brought home some hardware after a hard-fought weekend at the OCAA Championships in Sault Ste. Marie. The women secured a bronze medal after falling to the Niagara Knights in the semi-final.

Coached by Barry Westman and DJ Ronaldson, the women’s team finished 3-3 after round robin play, good for third place. In the semi-final match against the Knights, the Falcons lost 8-1 to fall to the bronze medal game. The Fanshawe team is comprised of skip Lauren Massey of London, vice Victoria Hinchliffe of Guelph, second Leah Hopkins of Ingersoll and lead Karima Hassan of London. Hopkins was named an OCAA Second-Team Championship All-Star.

“I am very happy for Leah Hopkins earning the Second-Team

All-Star Award,” said Westman.

“This was Leah’s first competitive curling experience, and she epitomized the teams hard work and willingness to make adjustments to improve her game. I am looking forward to having Leah back again next year.”

Westman added that the women’s team was one of the most coachable teams he’d ever worked with, highlighting their willingness to adjust and try new things.

“I am very proud of the women’s team’s bronze medal performance this past weekend. What the girls lacked in experience they made up for with hard work all season getting ready for this event.”

The Fanshawe men, meanwhile, finished round robin play in fifth place with a record of 1-4 and did not advance to the medal rounds. That wraps up the curling season for the Falcons, as the CCAA National Championships have unfortunately been canceled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

OUA releases updated dates for winter sport championships

Ontario University Athletics has announced new dates for winter sport championships, with most pushed to March.

The women’s fencing championship will now be held on March 5 and 6, with swimming and squash championships on the following weekend.

The weekend of March 18 will see the track and field, women’s and men’s volleyball and women’s hockey championships.

Women’s and men’s basketball, alongside men’s hockey, will end their seasons with their respective cups awarded on March 26.

The date set for the Nordic skiing championship will remain unchanged, to take place the

weekend of Feb. 25. The curling championship has been recently separated into two events – men’s and women’s. The latter will take place the same weekend as Nordic skiing.

Wrestling, badminton, men’s curling, men’s fencing and figure skating championship dates have not been finalized. All OUA competition is set to resume on Feb. 9, after the league’s temporary suspension of all sports programming.

CREDIT: FANSHAWE ATHLETICS

The Fanshawe women’s curling team took home bronze at the OCAA Championships.

CREDIT: ANASTASIIA FEDOROVA (GAZETTE) OUA announces updated dates for winter sport championships.

Bianca Collins GAZETTE

Brad Kraemer & Hannah Theodore INTERROBANG

End of restrictions: Student Wellness Centre opens for all students

After more than a month of enhanced restrictions, the Student Wellness Centre at Fanshawe College has reopened to all students, including those enrolled in fully online programs. The new rules came into effect Feb. 17. However, students will still need to book their sessions ahead of time despite the lifting of capacity limits.

The Rock Wall will also reopen to all students, with different hours of operation than the gym. Meanwhile, the Golf Simulator began operating Feb. 23. To book a session or for more information about activities, visit studentwellnesscentre.ca.

The restriction period started on Jan. 5 in alignment with provincial measures to avoid the spread of the Omicron variant. These measures were from Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen with modifications announced by the Ont. government. Among the restrictions were social gathering limits of five people indoors and 10 people outdoors, and 50 per cent capacity limits at retail settings such as malls.

All fitness, recreation, and gym facilities at Fanshawe were closed after the decision. But on Jan. 31, the centre was able to open at half capacity. Because of this, only blended students, varsity student-athletes, and students living in residence were allowed to use the facilities.

Students in fully online programs, like Italo Honorio, tried to play pingpong with another student during

this period because he didn’t know about the rules.

“We pay a whole lot of money to have access to everything that the campus can offer us, and when I got there I wasn’t allowed to play. It doesn’t make sense, I [had] access to everything inside the campus but I was blocked the entrance to the recreation centre”.

In a statement, Fanshawe College explained that the decision to allow students who are already required to be on campus was to keep the Centre

within capacity limits and reduce the number of students on campus. Virtual workouts and other digital wellness programming were available for students who could not be on campus.

“The College did not collect related ancillary fees from students studying fully online during the winter semester: Wellness Centre Universal (facility use and access), Athletics (on-site programming) and Wellness Centre Building (capital cost of the building),” the college said.

Despite some confusion, “wellness” fees paid by students through the Fanshawe Student Union (FSU) are not used for the Wellness Centre itself, but rather for events and activities coordinated by the FSU.

“When the Ancillary Fee says ‘wellness programming’ it would be for an event like the ‘chill lounge’ or a mental health speaker or a trivia night, etc. There are many different events that can help with ‘wellness.’ The same goes for ‘recreational programming’ – our

games nights, trivia nights, FUEL, etc. could all be classified as such,” according to a spokesperson for the FSU, Carol Balzer.

Membership Student-athletes, full-time blended students and students living in residence have access to the Centre. Online students need to purchase it at the front desk of the Student Wellness Centre located in Building J. Visit studentwellnesscentre.ca/memberships to read more information.

CREDIT: HANNAH THEODORE

After more than a month of enhanced restrictions, the Student Wellness Centre at Fanshawe College has reopened to all students, including those enrolled in fully online programs.

Ana Lustosa INTERROBANG